This warm, gooey, cheesy Baked Camembert Recipe is so easy to make and ready in 20 minutes, yet elegant and always a crowd pleaser! Topped with a sweet and tart cranberry compote and served with loads of crusty bread for dipping, this baked cheese appetizer needs to be included in your entertaining line up! Recipe can be scaled up or down by using the slider if you hover your mouse over the number of Servings.
For Serving: Crackers, Baguette Slices, Walnuts, Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
For the Cranberries: In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, cook brandy and sugar, stirring occasionally. Bring to a boil. Add half of the cranberries and cook, stirring frequently, until the cranberries burst, about 5-6 minutes. Add in the remaining cranberries and bring to a boil. Immediately remove the pan from heat and stir in the orange zest and thyme. Season to taste with a pinch of salt. Set aside, uncovered, to cool to room temperature.
Prep the Camembert: Score the top of the camembert in a crosshatch pattern with a paring knife. Transfer to a small baking dish. In a small bowl combine the brandy, oil and a pinch of salt. Pour mixture over cheese.
Bake the Camembert: Bake until cheese is very soft and oozy in the middle, about 15-20 minutes. Spoon any excess liquid over the cheese and let it rest for 5 minutes. (Tip: You must rest the cheese so it has a chance to settle!)
To Serve: Spoon cranberry mixture over cheese and serve with crackers, baguette slices and optional cheese board garnishes.
Video
Notes
Camembert Substitute: If you can’t find, or simply don’t want to use camembert, you can substitute brie cheese.
Preparing the Cheese: I baked the camembert right in its wooden box. You still need to place the box onto a baking dish though. Also, make sure you score the top of the cheese with a paring knife. I scored mine in a crosshatch pattern.
Cranberries: I used fresh cranberries, but you can substitute frozen if that is what you have on hand.
To make in advance: The cranberry compote can be made up to 5 days in advance. Simple cover and store in the refrigerator. When you are ready to use, bring the compote to room temperature before serving. Or, if you want a warm compote, place the compote in a small saucepan over low heat until desired temperature is achieved.
Nutritional information is an approximation based upon 8 servings. The exact information will depend upon the brands of ingredients and precise measurements used.